Labeling Theory
Labeling Theory Labeling theory is associated with Howard Becket and was
introduced in 1963. Labeling theory is the theory of deviance that views
deviance as a label assigned to behavior and individuals by particular figures
of authority. That means that no one is actually a deviant and no action is
deviant unless specified by society. The acts that are considered deviant today,
may be acceptable or even normal tomorrow or in another part of the world. This
theory doesn’t plausibly explain Nevet and Begonia’s behavior. Strain Theory
French sociologist Emile Durkheim (1858 – 1917) used the term anomie to describe
a state of normlessness in society, when many people are unclear as to the
expectations others have of them (Durkheim, 1951).
The importance of Durkheim’s
study for an understanding of deviance is his focus on the way a society can
actually create strains in the lives of its individual members. Anomie theory in
essence states that deviant behavior is encouraged by strains builkt into the
very fabric or society. Durkheim’s concept was borrowed from American
sociologist Robert Merton in his study of deviance. Merton (1956) analyzed
societal strains by pointing out the variety of ways that people might respond
to such strain. As the strains occur in all walks of life so too do the
(often-deviant) adaptations. The rebellion response to strain explains Nevet and
Begonia’s action by offering that they were encouraged to act deviantly because
there was so much strain of them to be perfect
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